Innovative Pest Solutions Blog

I’m sure you’ve heard of heartworms, but did you know they are transmitted by an insect? Everywhere I look, I’m seeing heart decorations for Valentine’s Day. This seems like an ideal time to remind you about heartworm prevention in your pets.  What are heartworms? Heartworms are parasitic worms that develop and reproduce inside the bloodstream, causing damage to the heart, lungs, and art...

Are you inadvertently bringing insects to your home? Read on to find out! I love my porch lights. This time of year, they come on early to welcome us home in these dark evenings. In the summer, they stay on late while we sit outside watching the kids play. These habits can be a problem if your home isn’t properly sealed, however.  What do my lights have to do with pests? Positive photota...

Did you know lovebugs are real insects and not just a pet name?  With Valentine’s Day around the corner, you’ve likely seen cards or gifts addressed to your “lovebug” – but did you know that lovebugs are insects we can find in NC?  What is a lovebug? Plecia nearctica, or the lovebug, is a specific species of bibionid fly. These insects got their name because they are often found in t...

As specialty stores and the no waste movement take hold of the Triangle, we are seeing more and more stores with bulk bins of grains, nuts, and seeds.  Whether you’re trying to eat clean this new year, save money, or reduce waste, bulk bins are a great option for your most commonly used pantry items. These bins enable you to purchase as much or as little product as you want, without havin...

Think rats aren’t a problem in the Raleigh-area? Think again! Raleigh may have that small-town charm, but it has common big city problems . . . including rats.  What are the most common rats in this area? The most common rats we see here are brown rats (Rattus norvegicus) and black rats (Rattus rattus). Both rat species are omnivorous, meaning they will eat both plant and animal matter. T...

Did you know that insect pests are categorized by the type of damage they cause or the locations they are found? Let’s learn more.  The term “pest” is not a very descriptive label when it comes to insects. Different insects are pests in different ways. Some of the most common insect pest categories are: • Household/Structural pests. These pests infest homes and other structures, such as s...